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Lactalis Canada and SOFIAC Partner on Decarbonization Project

DateJune 18, 2025
LocationMontreal (Quebec)
Canadian dairy leader Lactalis Canada and investment platform SOFIAC are pleased to announce a partnership that will see the launch of an ambitious decarbonization project at Lactalis Canada’s manufacturing facilities in Victoriaville and Laverlochère, Quebec.

Representing an investment of over $10 million funded by SOFIAC, the project is fully aligned with both partners’ sustainability objectives.

SOFIAC enables Lactalis Canada to implement comprehensive energy efficiency and decarbonization projects without requiring upfront capital investment. Through SOFIAC’s turnkey model, the company is deploying high-efficiency systems and targeted energy-saving measures across its facilities, supported by financial incentives and technical expertise. These initiatives are expected to reduce overall energy consumption by 11% and lower greenhouse gas emissions by 28% at these two facilities —equivalent to removing 1,700 cars from the road annually. A key component of the project is the implementation of a 1.6 MW winter peak demand management strategy, which optimizes electricity use during high-demand periods and improves overall system efficiency. Together, these actions contribute to meaningful reductions in utility costs and environmental impact, while supporting Lactalis Canada’s broader sustainability objectives.

“We are proud to support a major Canadian agri-food player in its decarbonization journey. This partnership perfectly illustrates our ability to deliver high-impact environmental projects while creating tangible value for our clients. With this new initiative, SOFIAC reaffirms its ability to deliver high-value decarbonization projects that generate both environmental and financial benefits for Canadian businesses,”
Christian G. Brosseau
President and CEO, SOFIAC
“We are pleased to be partnering with SOFIAC on this initiative that aligns very well with our broader commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. SOFIAC’s approach stood out for its technical expertise and understanding of both our operational and environmental challenges. This partnership enables us to accelerate our progress toward our emissions reduction goals, without compromising our operations.”
John Bayliss
Director, Energy & Environment, Lactalis Canada

A focus area of Lactalis Canada — the company behind well-known brands such as Cracker Barrel, Black Diamond, P’tit Québec, Balderson, IÖGO, and Lactantia — is reduction of its energy and natural gas consumption across its operations in Canada. This initiative in Canada will contribute to the Lactalis Group’s Science-Based Targets Initiative (SBTi) commitment globally to reduce its absolute scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 46.2% by 2030, using 2019 as the base year.

In keeping with its shared performance model, SOFIAC will be reimbursed through a portion of the energy savings generated. The project will also enhance the energy resilience of the facilities and reduce operational risks. Implementation will be led by Soteck Clauger, SOFIAC’s technical partner, known for its expertise in the agri-food sector.

About Lactalis
With over 140 years of brand heritage, Lactalis Canada is the Canadian dairy leader behind iconic brands Cracker Barrel, Black Diamond, P’tit Québec, Balderson, Cheestrings Ficello, aMOOza!, Astro, Khaas, siggi’s, IÖGO, IÖGO nanö, Olympic, Lactantia, Beatrice, Bfit, Enjoy!, Marie Morin Canada, Galbani, and Président. With more than 30 operating sites including 20 manufacturing facilities across Canada, the company and its more than 4000 employees are committed to enriching and nurturing the lives of Canadians through sustainable and responsible growth, high-quality products, contribution to communities and partnership with farmers, customers, partners and suppliers. Lactalis Canada has been named on Forbes’ 2025 Best Employers in Canada and one of Greater Toronto’s Top Employers for 2025. The company is part of Lactalis Group, the world’s leading dairy company, headquartered in Laval, France.
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ABOUT SOFIAC
Founded in 2021, SOFIAC is a $200M investment solution based on risk allocation and dedicated to decarbonization projects. SOFIAC pushes the boundaries of decarbonization in Canada by leveraging advanced expertise in both financing and technical solutions. In partnership with its network, SOFIAC develops projects that enhance competitiveness and reduce operating costs — all without impacting cash flow. Its innovative business model allows clients to immediately benefit from the savings generated by reduced energy consumption, with no upfront investment required. SOFIAC transforms energy efficiency initiatives into ambitious decarbonization projects that deliver both financial and environmental value.
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